13 Days China Food Tour: Beijing Xian Chengdu Guilin Hong Kong

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Beijing Arrival

   So happy to have you on our 13-day China Food Tour! When you arrive at the Beijing airport, our local guide and driver will warmly greet you with a sign with your name on it! You will then be transferred to the hotel and assist you with check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your trip.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: Penta Hotel Beijing

2. Day 2: Beijing City & Food Tour
   City Landmarks & Royal Dishes

   After breakfast, your day begins with a visit to Tian'anmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world. It is an iconic scenic spot in China with an area of 440,000 square meters and can accommodate 1 million people at a time for a grand rally.

   On the square, you’ll see prominent landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Flagpole, and the imposing Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Your guide will share historical stories associated with Tian'anmen Square.

   Next, you will be guided to learn how to eat Beijing Roast Duck in the right way and immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Beijing. Experience the rich flavors and crispy skin of this iconic dish.

   

   In the afternoon, explore Beijing’s hutongs, traditional narrow alleys, and Siheyuan (courtyard homes). You’ll take a rickshaw ride through these fascinating neighborhoods and get a closer look at local life and architecture.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Penta Hotel Beijing

3. Day 3: Beijing History Tour
   Take a Hike on China Great Wall

   Today, you will enjoy a tour of Beijing’s historic sites. The first stop is the Temple of Heaven, a magnificent royal complex where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held important religious ceremonies. Built in 1420, the Temple of Heaven is protected by two altar walls, which are divided into inner and outer altars. You will primarily focus on the inner altar, showcasing numerous ancient structures.

   One highlight is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests with its blue tiles and golden roof, designated for the emperor’s ritual of praying for a good harvest during the first lunar month. In 1998, the Temple of Heaven was recognized as a “World Cultural Heritage” by UNESCO.

   

   Following that, drive to another UNESCO World Heritage site - the Mutianyu Great Wall. Stretching 5,400 meters, Mutianyu is the longest section of the Great Wall in China, known for its dense watchtowers and scenic beauty. Upon arrival, your guide will accompany you on a cable car ride to the wall, allowing you to stroll along the ancient defense structure, marvel at the engineering wonder of the Great Wall, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

   After the visit, you will be driven back to Beijing city center.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Penta Hotel Beijing

   

4. Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an Tour
   Experience Imperial Recreational Life

   In the morning, we will go to explore the Summer Palace, a stunning royal garden that served as a retreat for emperors during the hot summer months. Based on Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, modeled after the West Lake in Hangzhou, the Summer Palace is a large landscape garden that draws on the design techniques of the gardens south of the Yangtze River. It is the most completely preserved imperial palace (for short stays away from the capital) in China and is known as the “Museum of Royal Gardens”.

   You will wander through the pavilions, halls, and lakeside gardens, appreciating the harmony of nature and architecture. If you are interested, you can take a boat tour on Kunming Lake to enjoy another perspective of the Summer Palace.

   

   After lunch, you have the option to fly or take a high-speed rail to Xi'an. The rail journey takes approximately 5 hours and offers scenic countryside views. Choose the mode of transportation that suits your preferences.

   Once in Xi'an, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an

5. Day 5: Xi’an History Tour & Food Tour
   Xi'an Highlights & Authentic Local Snacks

   In the morning, your guide will pick you up at the hotel lobby and drive for 1 hour to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, acclaimed as the eighth wonder of the world. Upon entering the museum, you’ll witness thousands of life-sized clay figurines, which are the underground guardians of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s empire. They are intricately designed, well-equipped, and vary in appearance, creating a lifelike army ready for battle.

   Your guide will provide insights into the purpose and significance of the Terracotta Army. After that, you will be taken to participate in a unique DIY activity, guided by a professional, where you can create your own mini clay warrior as a memorable souvenir.

   

   In the afternoon, return to Xi’an City to visit the Ancient City Wall, the most complete existing ancient city wall in China, originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It surrounds the central part of Xi’an, stretching 13.7 kilometers in length, with a width of 15 meters, tall and sturdy.

   Ascending the city wall, you can stroll or rent a bicycle to explore the buildings on the city wall, such as watchtowers, battlements, and arrow towers, and overlook the magnificent view of the city.

   In the evening, take a food tour of the Muslim Quarter, known for its authentic Xi'an street food, including specialties like Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Mutton and Bread Pieces in Soup, Soup Dumplings, and Liangpi (cold noodles). Walking along the antique streets, lined with traditional Hui buildings, you can feel the rich atmosphere of Muslim culture.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an

   

6. Day 6: Xian to Chengdu by Bullet Train
   Dig into the Splendid Chinese Civilization

   The final stop on your Xi’an tour is the Shaanxi History Museum. It houses a large collection of artifacts ranging from simple stone tools used in the initial stages of ancient mankind to various types of artifacts used in social life before 1840, spanning more than a million years and reflecting the rich history of the region.

   You will be led by a knowledgeable guide to gain an in-depth understanding of the ancient civilization of the Shaanxi region and appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship of the exhibits.

   

   In the afternoon, board a bullet train from Xi'an to Chengdu, known as the home of the giant pandas. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the high-speed journey that will take you to your next destination.

   Upon arrival in Chengdu, check into your hotel and take the evening to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Tibet Hotel Chengdu

7. Day 7: Chengdu Panda & Food Tour
   Culinary Experience of Cooking Sichuan Dishes

   After breakfast, your guide will take you to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you will see giant pandas of different ages, from newborn cubs to full-grown adults. As the world's largest giant panda breeding base, it is a sanctuary for pandas and a great place for tourists to get to know these lovely creatures up close.

   After that, continue your exploration of Chengdu's culinary scene with a visit to the Sichuan Cuisine Museum. You will engage in a cooking class where you'll learn how to prepare three typical Sichuan dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. You may discover the secrets of Sichuan cuisine and taste the flavors of your creations during a pleasant dinner, which will leave an unforgettable memory during this China food tour.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Accommodation: Tibet Hotel Chengdu

   

8. Day 8: Chengdu to Guilin Tour
   Enjoy Gastronomic Delights Along Gourmet Street

   This morning, start the day with a 1.5-hour drive to the Jinsha Museum, which is a site museum built for the protection, study, and display of Jinsha culture and ancient Shu civilization (221-263). You can see gold artifacts, bronze statues, precious jade, stone tools, and other cultural relics found at this historical excavation site.

   Then, your tour guide will take you to dive deeper into Chengdu’s culinary culture. Wander through an old alley and sample some typical Chengdu street food. You will indulge in the alluring flavors of local delicacies and experience vibrant street food.

   

   After that, we will head to People's Park, a popular gathering place for locals. You can enjoy a cup of tea at a traditional tea house and savor local snacks while immersing yourself in the park's lively atmosphere.

   Later in the day, take a flight to Guilin, a city renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. Check into your hotel and relax for the evening.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Lijiang Waterfall Hotel

9. Day 9: Guilin Tour
   Rustic Landscape & Traditional Flavors

   After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a scenic journey to the Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces. You will marvel at the spectacular terraces that stretch across the hillside creating an enchanting sight. Your guide will also show you around the neighboring villages and interact with the local ethnic minority residents to learn about their ethnic culture and traditions.

   A special activity will be arranged for you to learn how to make Bamboo Tube Rice, a traditional dish cooked inside bamboo tubes. Enjoy a delicious meal of local cuisine with fresh ingredients and savor oil tea, a unique beverage of the region.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: Lijiang Waterfall Hotel

   

10. Day 10: Guilin to Yangshuo Cruise
    Immerse Yourself in Picturesque Scenery along Li River

    Today, you will experience the enchanting beauty of the Li River on a leisurely cruise. During the voyage, you can enjoy the unique karst landscape. The clear turquoise waters of the river and the towering limestone peaks set off a picturesque landscape.

    Along the way, you will pass by spots such as Elephant Hill and Lion Rock, which are not to be missed for photography. Relax on board, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and capture memorable photos.

    

    Arrive in Yangshuo, a charming town nestled in limestone karst, in approximately 4 hours. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the town's vibrant streets, browsing the local stores, and soaking up the unique atmosphere.

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

    Accommodation: Yangshuo Mountain Retreat

11. Day 11: Guilin to Hong Kong by Bullet Train
    Admire Views of Li River in A Different Way

    After breakfast, embark on an adventure along the Yulong River, the longest tributary of the Li River in Yangshuo, with a total length of 43.5 kilometers. The water is clear and gently flowing all year round. The mountains on both sides of the river are beautiful, rolling, and myriad in form. The river banks are lush with green grass, verdant bamboo, and shady trees.

    Today, we will take you to experience bamboo rafting. Drift along gentle currents surrounded by stunning nature and peaceful landscapes.

    

    In the afternoon, you will be escorted to take a high-speed train to Hong Kong, a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends Eastern and Western influences. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare to explore the vibrant streets of this dynamic city.

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

    Accommodation: The Salisbury YMCA of Hong Kong Hotel

12. Day 12: Hong Kong Food Tour
    Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Exquisite Dim Sum

    A great day starts with greater food. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to sample local dim sum, a quintessential Hong Kong culinary experience. Common Hong Kong-style refreshments include shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and steamed rice noodle rolls, which are known for their small size, color, and flavor. Sample a variety of bite-sized delicacies and savor the flavors of this traditional cuisine.

    

    Then, take a guided walking tour through narrow alleys and hidden corners of Hong Kong to add more fun to this China food adventure. Your guide will lead you to discover local specialties and street food delights. Learn about the city's history, culture, and culinary traditions as you explore the dynamic neighborhoods.

    Take your time to savor different street food offerings, allowing your taste buds to be delighted by the diverse flavors and textures that Hong Kong has to offer.

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

    Accommodation: The Salisbury YMCA of Hong Kong Hotel

13. Day 13: Hong Kong Departure

    Have breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy your last leisure time in China. Afterwards, depending on your flight, your guide will accompany you to the airport for departure. Your 13-day China food tour ends here. We hope you have enjoyed your time with us.

    Meal: Breakfast

    Accommodation: N/A